On February 28, 1991, Kuwait was officially freed from the clutches of Iraqi control, an event that was announced to the world by then U.S. President George H.W. Bush via television. This liberation was part of Operation Desert Storm, which was launched in response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait under President Saddam Hussein in August 1990. The invasion raised alarms among neighboring Arab nations, prompting countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt to call for American intervention to restore sovereignty to Kuwait.

The invasion of Kuwait was marked by intense regional and international turmoil, leading to a significant military response from a coalition led by the United States. Despite calls from the United Nations for Saddam Hussein to withdraw from Kuwait, he refused compliance until mid-January 1991, thereby escalating tensions to a breaking point. Following this, Operation Desert Storm commenced, characterized by a major air assault that lasted for 42 days, ultimately crippling Iraqi military capabilities and leading to the liberation of Kuwait.

The implications of this event were profound, affecting not only the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East but also shaping U.S. foreign policy in the region going forward. The successful operation marked a turning point in U.S. military engagement, showcasing the might of coalition forces and establishing a precedent for international response to aggression. Kuwait's liberation was a significant victory, but the aftermath of Saddam Hussein's continued rule and subsequent conflicts in the region raised questions about long-term stability and peace in the area.